Moving to a new town can be an exhilarating experience with new opportunities. It might also be a fantastic way to start fresh.
However, despite the perks, moving long-distance comes with many inconveniences. For example, you’ll probably need to hire a moving service to help you relocate all of your possessions. You’ll also need to spend time getting acclimated to a brand-new community.
But what about transporting vehicles? Have you figured out how to get your car or cars to your new home?
Fortunately, there are many solutions to this problem. We’re here to provide some insight into your top options. Keep reading for the four best ways of transporting vehicles.
1. Professional Vehicle Transportation Services
The best and most convenient transportation option is to hire professional transportation services. These types of services offer a wide variety of easy auto transport options, including:
- Enclosed transport service
- Open-air transport
- Single-vehicle container transport
Each option comes with pros and cons.
Enclosed Vehicle Transport
Enclosed transport services are generally a little more expensive than open-air transport options. However, they protect more from the weather, road debris, vandals, and other potential damages. You won’t have to worry about damage to your paint or windows during the relocation.
Open-Air Transport
Open-air vehicle transport services offer a less expensive option, as noted above. However, despite the skill and care of the driver, your vehicle has no guarantee against damages.
The paint and windshield could suffer damage if your car is exposed to hail or high winds. During pit stops and overnight stays, your vehicle may also be vulnerable to vandalism.
Single-Car Containers
One of the most expensive options for transporting vehicles is using single-car containers. However, this option comes with benefits.
For example, if the driver is only transporting your car, you can expect faster, more streamlined deliveries. Because they’re not hauling a massive load of multiple vehicles, you can have the car delivered directly to your home. Assuming the service provider uses enclosed trailers, your vehicle will also be incredibly safe and secure.
How to Choose the Best Service
Ultimately, find the vehicle transport services that fit your budget and your needs.
What will your vehicle transport costs be? How much protection do you want? Which transportation service can meet your timeline?
You should also consider customer reviews, licensing and insurance, customer satisfaction guarantees, and more.
2. Towing or Hauling the Car Yourself
If you’re concerned about vehicle transport costs, the cheapest option would be to tow or haul the car behind your moving truck. Depending on how you’re hauling your possessions to your new location, this may or may not be an option.
For example, if you’ve rented a moving van or truck, they may not allow people to hitch vehicles or additional trailers to their equipment. Yet, if hauling the car yourself is an option, it can save you some money. Additionally, getting everything to your destination in one trip can save you a ton of time on the road.
However, this can be a dangerous option if you don’t have experience transporting vehicles via trailers or towlines. Driving while towing a heavy load affects your turning radius, stopping times, and control at high speeds. We don’t recommend taking unnecessary risks by attempting a long-distance tow with limited experience.
3. Driving the Car Yourself
Driving your own car is always a cheap vehicle transport option. You’ll only need to pay for fuel, snacks for the road, and lodging. However, if you spend multiple days on the road, these costs can add up quickly.
Additionally, driving multiple cars across the country to your new home will take time. If you have a job waiting for you in your new city, you might not have the luxury of time. You don’t need to add any more stress to your relocation.
Furthermore, it’s understandable to be antsy to start settling into your new home. If you take several days to drive back and forth from one state to the next, you might limit your ability to set up your new home. This time is crucial for unpacking your stuff, organizing your new home, and getting acquainted with the city.
Lastly, this option isn’t valid if you are transporting vehicles that aren’t road-worthy. It could be a car that you’re in the process of restoring. Alternatively, it might be a classic, rare, or exotic car that you don’t want to spend many unnecessary miles on.
In this case, having the car transported professionally would be better.
4. Asking a Friend or Family Member to Drive the Vehicle
Finally, you can always ask someone you trust to help you transport the vehicle. If you have multiple vehicles or are driving the moving van, a friend or family member could drive your personal car to your new location.
However, this is a big favour to ask of someone, especially if they’re not moving to your new location. You’ll ask them to take several days out of their schedule to help you move. While you probably have people in your life who are willing to do this for free, it would be a good idea to offer them payment for their time.
If you choose this option, ensure your insurance covers other drivers. If your friend or family member gets in an accident, you’ll want to ensure their medical expenses are covered. Even if they weren’t injured, it’s important to know that you won’t be entirely responsible for covering the costs of the damages to the vehicle.
Harnessing the Power of DIY: Vehicle Shipping by Train
This section will expand your horizons by introducing the option of DIY vehicle shipping via train. Although it isn’t as commonly known as hiring a professional service or towing the vehicle, it offers unique benefits.
Understanding Train Transport
First off, let’s familiarize ourselves with the concept. Train transport for vehicles is a method where your car is loaded onto a freight train and transported across the country.
This eco-friendly, fuel-efficient mode of transport can be a blessing for your wallet and conscience alike. Not to mention, it often offers a quicker transit time compared to long-haul truck transport.
Pros and Cons of Train Transport
Like all options, vehicle shipping via train comes with its unique set of advantages and disadvantages:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Eco-friendly | Limited Locations |
| Cost-effective | Scheduling |
| Faster transit | Availability |
Pros:
- Eco-Friendly: Trains are more fuel-efficient than trucks, so this option could drastically reduce the carbon footprint of your move.
- Cost-Effective: Shipping a car by train is often cheaper than using a professional vehicle transport service, particularly for long-distance moves.
- Faster Transit: Depending on the route, your car could reach its destination faster by train than it would by road.
Cons:
- Limited Locations: Train companies may not provide service to all locations, so this option might not be feasible for some moves.
- Scheduling: Train schedules may not align with your moving timeline, so you must be flexible.
- Availability: Trains may have limited vehicle space, so this option requires early booking.
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Train Transport
To make the most of this opportunity, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your vehicle for train transport:
- Empty Your Vehicle: Remove all personal belongings from your car. Any items left in the car are not typically insured during transit.
- Perform a Thorough Check: Inspect your car and note any pre-existing damage. Take photos as a record. This will be helpful for any potential insurance claims.
- Ensure Low Fuel: Keep only a quarter gas tank in your vehicle. This reduces weight and improves safety during transit.
Remember, preparation is the key. The better you prepare your vehicle, the smoother the transit process will be.
Is Train Transport the Right Choice?
Choosing train transport boils down to your specific needs and circumstances. Consider factors such as your budget, the distance of your move, your flexibility with timing, and whether train service is available between your current and future home locations.
Train transport is an excellent way to balance cost, speed, and environmental impact when transporting your vehicle, provided it aligns with your other moving logistics. After all, the essence of a successful move lies in considering all your options and finding the one that best fits your unique situation.
Now that you have another valuable method in your transportation toolkit, you’re one step closer to making your move as smooth as possible!
In Conclusion: Taking the Wheel on Vehicle Transport
Navigating the ins and outs of vehicle transport during a long-distance move can seem overwhelming, but with the right knowledge and options at your disposal, it becomes a manageable task. Whether you choose professional vehicle transportation services, decide to tow or drive the car yourself, enlist the help of a friend, or explore the eco-friendly option of train transport, the right solution is the one that best meets your specific needs, budget, and timeline.
The key to success is taking the time to understand the pros and cons of each method and adequately preparing your vehicle for transport. Always remember your vehicle’s safety and peace of mind should be top priorities. With careful planning and consideration, you can ensure your vehicle arrives safely at your new home, ready to drive you towards your next chapter.
As you embark on your moving journey, keep this guide handy and explore other articles on our blog for more practical advice and insights. We’re here to equip you with the tools to master your move. Let’s hit the road together!
